More workers standing up on the job

Mar 26, 2012, 9:20 AM | Updated: 10:53 am

97.3 KIRO FM news editor Seth Keller credits the switch to stand up workstations for lessened back pain and increased energy. (Josh Kerns/MyNorthwest.com)

(Josh Kerns/MyNorthwest.com)

There’s a whole lot of standing around going on these days
in the 97.3 KIRO FM newsroom, and experts say that’s a good thing.

Standing workstations are a growing trend across the
country, as more and more people look to counter back
pain and other problems that come with sitting for long
hours at a desk.

“My lower back doesn’t hurt as much when I stand up and I
have more energy because when I’m sitting I’m just staring
at the screen and it’s just draining,” says Seth Keller,
news editor with 97.3 KIRO FM.

Keller’s not imagining it. Jack Dennerlein, an expert in
workplace health with the Harvard School of Public Health
says sitting for too long greatly increases the risk of
cardiovascular disease and is a common source of back pain
and other problems. He says standing desks offer a
number of advantages.

“Your body is expending more energy. Your heart rate is
slightly elevated compared to when your sitting. The
other advantage that people suspect is your back can get
into a more neutral posture,” Dennerlein says.

Sales of standing workstations are skyrocketing. A new
report featured at Boston.com says sales have increased
by “triple digits” in the last decade.

“Sit-stand desks have moved from a niche product category
to one that is standard in the top commercial furniture
retailers,” said Ann Hall, a marketer for the Danish
manufacturer Linak Group, which makes components that
elevate desks.

But it does take some adjustment. Keller says he’s had to
learn different positions for working and standing to get
comfortable, and still needs to sit occasionally.

“It’s a lot different typing standing up and it’s harder
to use the mouse,” he says. But overall he’s happy to
have the option. And Dennerlein says there are
significant benefits for employers as well.

“If this catches on in the workplace what we hope to see
is workers that are healthier and more productive,”
Dennerlein says.

Local News

Sea-Tac airport parking...

Nate Connors

Sea-Tac Airport parking rates going up more than 30%

Sea-Tac Airport parking garage rates are going up more than 30% to $8 an hour beginning this Thursday to help fund capital projects.

12 hours ago

debt ceiling...

Associated Press

Crucial days ahead as debt ceiling deal goes for vote

Joe Biden says he "feels good" about the debt ceiling and budget deal negotiated with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy.

12 hours ago

7-Eleven armed robbers...

KIRO 7 News Staff

At least 3 Eastside 7-Eleven stores held up by armed robbers

At least three 7-Eleven stores on King County’s Eastside were hit by armed robbers Tuesday morning, according to police.

12 hours ago

Yarrow...

Shawn Garrett, KIRO 7 News

Burglars using kayaks and wetsuits break into Yarrow Point home

Burglars with kayaks and wearing wetsuits broke into a home on Yarrow Point early Thursday morning, according to the Clyde Hill Police Department.

1 day ago

White Center shooting...

Colleen West

3 hurt after shooter opens fire at White Center bowling alley

KING COUNTY, Wash. — A shooter is on the loose after opening fire on three people at a White Center bowling alley and casino Saturday night.

1 day ago

Eugene and Linda Lamie, of Homerville, Ga., sit by the grave of their son U.S. Army Sgt. Gene Lamie...

Associated Press

Biden on Memorial Day lauds generations of fallen US troops who ‘dared all and gave all’

President Joe Biden lauded the sacrifice of generations of U.S. troops who died fighting for their country as he marked Memorial Day with the traditional wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery.

1 day ago

Sponsored Articles

Internet Washington...

Major Internet Upgrade and Expansion Planned This Year in Washington State

Comcast is investing $280 million this year to offer multi-gigabit Internet speeds to more than four million locations.

Compassion International...

Brock Huard and Friends Rally Around The Fight for First Campaign

Professional athletes are teaming up to prevent infant mortality and empower women at risk in communities facing severe poverty.

Emergency Preparedness...

Prepare for the next disaster at the Emergency Preparedness Conference

Being prepared before the next emergency arrives is key to preserving businesses and organizations of many kinds.

SHIBA volunteer...

Volunteer to help people understand their Medicare options!

If you’re retired or getting ready to retire and looking for new ways to stay active, becoming a SHIBA volunteer could be for you!

safety from crime...

As crime increases, our safety measures must too

It's easy to be accused of fearmongering regarding crime, but Seattle residents might have good reason to be concerned for their safety.

Comcast Ready for Business Fund...

Ilona Lohrey | President and CEO, GSBA

GSBA is closing the disparity gap with Ready for Business Fund

GSBA, Comcast, and other partners are working to address disparities in access to financial resources with the Ready for Business fund.

More workers standing up on the job